Breastfeeding Tip # 1 – The “Special K Position”

When babies breastfeed, their mouths should form the shape of a back-to-front K. Their lips should be spread outwards, forming the arms of the K. Many babies like to tuck their bottom lip in, or even both bottom and top lips (in the shape of a C around your nipple). While the baby might still be able to get milk from your breast, this will cause you pain in the breastfeeding process.

If you latch the baby onto your breast and the lips are not in the correct position, stop, take him off, and start again. Sometimes you will be able to pull out the lower lip without removing him completely, but it’s best not to do this until you are more experienced with breastfeeding. Keep trying even if you need to reattach the baby six (or more) times before he gets it right. Your nipples will thank you!

Keep an eye out on your baby’s position during the feed. They often move their lips as they suck, and you may need to stop and fix their position yet again. As baby gets more used to the Special K position, they will start to do it automatically as time goes on, and you’ll be able to pay less and less attention to the position of their mouths.

It’s worth taking the time and effort to get this important position correct when you start to breastfeed. If you can, even before you go to deliver your baby, try watching a friend or relative who is breastfeeding. Ask if you can check out how the baby sucks (referred to as “latching on”). If there is nobody available, check out the books or articles on breastfeeding for a picture of the correct position. It really helps to have the picture in your mind when you are flustered and trying to feed as a brand new mother.